This MonTh:

If undeliverable, please return to: PM 41913515Huu-ay-aht First Nations Treaty Office3483 - 3rd Ave., Port Alberni, BC V9Y 4E4

Page 5...Finding hoMe

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Regular Features: 2. HFN Leadership Updates 4. Language and Culture 5. Community Profiles 6. Our Community 7. Community Calendar 8. One Word at a Time

Countdown to Treaty Implementation Effective

Date, April 1, 2011: 151 Days

Uyaqhmis November 2010 Issue 25

A Rich History, A Bright Future..Huu-ay-aht

Page 8...coMMiTMenT

Fire engine For anaclaThe Huu-ay-aht First Nation is now the proud new owner of a modern fire truck, purchased from the City of Port Alberni in early October. It will be the centrepiece of the HFN / Anacla community’s fire fighting and emergency preparedness plan. Ben Clappis has been a long time advocate for the purchase of a fire truck and for training of community volunteer fire fighters. Holding the HFN Council portfolio for community emergency readiness, Ben explained that “the safety and well being of our community members is our most import-ant priority.” According to Rodney Murray, HFN Director of Public Works and Infrastructure, “This is a perfect example of how purchasing a piece of much needed equipment is worth much more than it may appear at first glance. This fire truck really represents an important step in our community’s efforts at self government. It demonstrates that we are capable of identifying community problems and finding our own solutions.” HFN Capital Projects Coordinator Charlie Clappis helped identify community members interested in fire fighting training and ten people have already volunteered. Huu-ay-aht member Tom Happynook achieved the rank of Captain during his employment with the Department of National Defense Fire Service at CFB Esquimalt. He was pleased to share a few thoughts on the purchase of this new equipment: “I am really proud that we purchased this fire truck. We will be able to better respond to emergencies and to protect the people, homes and property of Anacla residents. In addition, the level of community interest in our volunteer fire service may well be a spring-board to others interested in helping with community emergency services.” While there are several steps remaining prior to the arrival of the fire truck in Anacla, all Huu-ay-aht can be proud that this new equipment and the training of ten volunteer firefighters will greatly enhance the health, safety and well being of our community.

Features of this fire engine:* Diesel Engine with a pumping capacity of 1050 imperial gallons/minute (5000 L) at 100psi .* Built in 500 gallon water tank (International / Cargo Star)* Certification has been strictly maintained since it was built in 1985. It has comparatively low operating hours (2955 pump hours and 49,043 km).

huu-ay-ahT FirsT naTions

A Rich History, A Bright Future

Huu-ay-aht Uyaqh =mis is printed ten times per year to foster com-munity awareness and involve-ment among a population of over six-hundred and fifty people

Huu-ay-aht Uyaqh =mis promotes the recovery of the Huu-ay-aht dialect of the Nuu-chah-nulth lan-guage, culture and principles. An additional goal is to increase com-munity skills and capacity as the Huu-ay-aht First Nations prepare for Effective Date of the Maa-nulth Treaty on April 1st, 2011. Finally, Uyaqh =mis aims to promote know-ledge of Huu-ay-aht First Nations’ culture and language with inter-ested readers both nationally and internationally.

Send any letters to the editor, comments, questions or requests to the Huu-ay-aht Communica-tions Department. Contact in-formation is found below.

Please note that the HFN Com-munications Department reserves the right to select submissions based on theme and content and may edit materials for grammar and space. We are committed to accuracy in our reporting. If a mistake is made, please let us know and we will correct it in our next issue.

Items not selected for publication in this newsletter may be pub-lished on the Huu-ay-aht website, and as above, may be edited for space and grammar.

The Huu-ay-aht Communica-tions Department is governed by the Huu-ay-aht Communications Committee, a group selected by the Huu-ay-aht First Nations Chief & Council.

We, the Huu-ay-aht people, envision a proud, self-governing, and sover-eign nation. Isaak will guide us as we work together to establish a healthy, prosperous and self-sustaining com-munity where our culture, language, spirituality and economy prosper for the benefit of all Huu-ay-aht

huu-ay-ahT FirsT naTions coMMunicaTions

coMMiTTeehfn.communications@gmail.com

Chairperson: John Alan Jackjohn.jack@gmail.com

Committee Member: Derek Peters

naasiismis@gmail.com

Communications ManagerDenny Durocher

denny.d@huuayaht.org

Communications CoordinatorBrent Ronning

brent.r@huuayaht.org

Huu-ay-aht Treaty Office3483-3rd AvenuePort Alberni, BC V9Y 4E4

T: 250.723.0100F:250.723.4646

www.huuayaht.orgHuu-ay-aht Uyaqh =mis

© Huu-ay-aht First Nations 2010

hFn leadershiP uPdaTes

McIntosh, Norton, Williams, Certified General Accountants (CGAs)Specializing in First Nations taxation,

auditing & strategic management planning.• Jay Norton, FCGA, CAFM• Cory McIntosh, CGA, CAFM, CFP• Mike K. Williams, CGA, Dip. IT• Jason Moore, BA, CGA

Phone: 250-724-0185 Fax: 250-724-1774Toll Free: 1-888-724-0185

2nd Floor - 4445 Gertrude St., Port Alberni, BC V9Y 6J1

unraveling The huu-ay-ahT Financial adMinisTraTion acT

According to the lyrics of the famous “Money Song” from Cabaret, “Money makes the world go round”. That phrase rings particularly true for Huu-ay-aht as we prepare our “world” for the far reaching changes that we have been working on now for the past 15 years. The date for many of these changes to kick into gear is April 1st, 2011–the day that the Maa-nulth Final Agreement comes into effect. As engaged citizens, Huu-ay-aht want to know that their leadership has taken the necessary steps to guarantee that their house (which includes their financial house) is in good order as we move into the next stages of Treaty Implementation. While no one can predict with 100% accuracy what a day in the life of a Huu-ay-aht citizen will look like after April 1st, it is important that our members know that all the changes, legislative acts and policies have been and will continue to be developed by and for Huu-ay-aht members. This means that HFN Committees, under the bold leader-ship of Huu-ay-aht Council, are presently developing legislation, poli-cies and regulations with the input of Huu-ay-aht citizens. Special-ized consultants also provide expertise in legal, financial, economic and community planning areas, for example. To ensure that Huu-ay-aht citizens are informed and knowledgeable about the legislation, acts, and policies, they will be posted on the HFN website as soon as they become available for review. In the meantime, this is the first of a series of Uyaqhmis articles in brief and clear language to provide an overview of one of these Huu-ay-aht Acts: the Financial Administration Act (FAA). The summary at right was produced by Dan Perrin, financial technical advisor to the HFN Finance Committee. Huu-ay-aht citizens who may want a more comprehensive review of the FAA can access the complete text of the Act at the Huu-ay-aht website (www.huuayaht.org) in the coming weeks.

Financial adMinisTraTion acT (Faa)What is it?Although it sounds like bookkeeping, it is so much more. It is about sound and prudent management of all things related to finance and wealth (and that is just about everything!). Although not a very clear term, “financial administration” is the name used throughout Canada so we are using it too.

Principles •Council is responsible for making the political decisions, and•Must act in the best interests of Huu-ay-aht government and its current and future citizens. •Council answers to the People’s Assembly for its Action•Public information must be provided quickly enough for citizens to question what Council is doing and has done•Council processes must be open to everyone so Huu-ay-aht citizens can see what Council is doing and let them know what they like and don’t like•The budget process and financial reporting must cover everything controlled by government and nothing is hidden•Financial Information must show what is happening over time

Key FAA Features •The FAA says what the Legislature, Executive Council, People’s Assembly, Ha’wiih Council, Finance Committee Economic Development and the Executive Director must do•It sets out the steps in the budget cycle (See Chart Below) •It requires financial information to be published quarterly and annually•It requires a balanced budget•It sets accounting standards and requires and annual audit by an auditor appointed by the People’ Assembly•It requires an Invested Wealth Fund with a least $16 million in assets•It limits spending to what is approved in the budget•It requires assets to be taken care of whether they are land, buildings, financial investments or other assets, for the benefit of future generations•It established a holding company called the Huu-ay-aht Development Corporation to manage all HFN-owned businesses to separate business and politics

Budget CycleStrategic plan—November 30Budget forecast—January 31Financial plan—March 31Monthly financial report—Within 30 days when no quarterly reportQuarterly financial report—To Executive Council within 45 daysAnnual audited financial—To Executive Council within 90 daysAnnual audited financial statements / Annual Report—To Executive Council within 15 days of Annual Financial Statement Approval; Presented at the next People’s Assembly

council cornerhighlighTs FroM ocTober 19Th, 2010 chieF

& council MeeTing in anaclaAGM/People’s Assembly being organized for November • 27th/28th in Port Alberni. Sessions will be webcast for members who are unable to travel to Port Alberni.The CEO position for the HFN Development Corporation • has been posted; Council will be part of the hiring process with Director of Government and Financial Services Alan Legg and financial advisor Dan Perrin. Marketing HFN Treaty Settlement Lands: how to make it a • destination? Council to put to strategic planning session and consider signage and promotion internationally.Housing needs to be a priority in Council plans and will • be put in strategic plan: members have made its importance clear during community meetings.Council passed a motion agreeing in principle to acquiring • the Bamfield East wharf subject to legal review of funding, environmental, and water lot issues.Fisheries is on task per closing plan; the priority continues to • be the assertion of treaty rights and protection of interests off Treaty Settlement LandsCouncil passed a motion to contribute $35,000 to the NTC • fishing litigation 2010/11 budget (share per Nation)Community consultation (survey) on housing to be done • November 8-12No community rounds in November due to AGM/People’s • Assembly Ceremony for multipurpose building (ribbon cutting) will • be a soft opening in winter and a formal opening (weather permitting) around Effective Date; committee to plan grand opening. Plans to pave road to multipurpose building prior to grand • opening

3Huu-ay-aht Uyaqhmis Issue 25 November 2010

hFn direcTor ProFiles

rodney Murray: direcTor oF Public Works & coMMuniTy

inFrasTrucTure “Travel changes people,” says Rodney Murray. This was particularly true for Rodney who, after completing high school and working for a while, cashed in his savings to fund a trip to North Africa and Europe. An important part of that journey was connecting with family members from his great grandfather’s ancestral village in Eastern Greece. Growing up on a farm in Cobble Hill with lots of practical 4-H experience, Rodney Murray has been employed in a lot of different jobs that have allowed him to develop a wide range of personal and technical skills. Rodney’s skills range from electrician (five years

as an electrician apprentice), training and managing 44 horses at the Queen Margaret International School, to owning his own small organic farm business. He participated in the first ever Masters Gardeners Training program at Malaspina University-College (now, Vancouver Island University) and worked with community gardeners across Vancouver Island. Rodney took a landscaping contract with HFN in 2005 working with Anacla Work Opportunities participants to beautify and thin out forested areas in the village. They also made the village safer, as a cougar family had boldly made their den in the centre of the village. Over the past several years, Rodney has completed certification courses in Water Distribution, Water Treatment, Small Waste Water Systems as well as a Project Management Courses. He is presently working on a BCIT distance education diploma course in Community Planning. As the Nation transitions to self government, Rodney highlighted that Huu-ay-aht are particularly well situated in the area of community infra-structure improvement. “We have received money from Canada’s Economic Action Plan, we are improving some of our present housing, and we have lots of capital projects on the go including the Multipurpose Building. For me, healthy infrastructure means a healthy community.”

larry Johnson: direcTor oF lands & naTural resources

Over the past 15 years, Larry Johnson has worked for HFN in a variety of challenging positions leading up to his appointment this past May as HFN Director of Lands and Natural Resources. “My work history before 1995 consisted of working on fishing boats or in the forest industry. Around that time, I had moved to the village of Anacla and was elected to serve the first of my two terms as a HFN Council member,” Larry remembers. “The HFN Council was in the process of shifting to a ‘portfolio’ approach and I was handed the Human Services portfolio.” “My approach to taking on challenging tasks is to dive in head first. I attend as many meetings as possible, seeking out experienced people willing to share their knowledgeable. I learn as much as I can possibly learn before developing and moving on to a strategic plan of work.

“In the case of Human Services, together with HFN staff, we organized a Human Services Committee that consisted of community family members willing to deal with serious issues: substance abuse, domestic violence, substandard educational opportunities, high levels of unemployment and the overall dependency on the DIA / INAC view of service delivery in our communities. “After that first year, I was assigned the HFN Council Forestry portfolio and began to learn a ‘new language’ of forestry practices codes, five year plans, licensing and information on cut blocks. Although I had good instincts on how to move ahead, it really wasn’t until I began to see the economic connection between where we were in our forestry development plans and where we wanted to be were directly linked to reclaiming our aboriginal rights to own and de-velop our own resources. “This revelation led years of community driven research in Traditional Use Studies and stimulated a more meaningful negotiation with federal and provincial treaty negotiators. In the forestry sector, we negotiated our first annual harvest contract of 10,000 cubic metres of timber. Today that number exceeds 100,000 cubic metres per year and that is generating revenue for the Nation. We organized a Natural Resources Governance Board to oversee our corporation and eventually included a leadership role for our hereditary chiefs. “I held the fisheries portfolio for a while and was able to chart real progress in the area of fisheries. Later, I gave up the Council member seat to run (unsuccessfully) for Chief Councillor but continued to work for the future of the Nation in many areas including Economic Development. “In the Lands and Resources Department today, the Huu-ay-aht are fortunate to have a number of people with great work experience, energy and commitment. My message to Huu-ay-aht and the broader community is that we know who we are, where we come from, and we know where we are going. We are ready to unlock the wealth of our land. The Huu-ay-aht First Nation is open for business”.

This month, Uyaqhmis introduces you to two of the four Directors of HFN: Larry Johnson and Rodney Murray. Next month, we profile Alan Legg (Director of Finance and Government Services) and Kathy Waddell (Director of Human Services)

language and culTure

Huu-ay-aht Uyaqhmis Issue 25 November 2010 44Huu-ay-aht Uyaqhmis

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Sarah Bonar, Chatwin Engineering Biologist Studying Pachena River Flows

Last month we shared the names given to the Paawats students at the August potlatch. Below you will find a more complete version which includes both NCN and “Easy Read” spelling. Compare them and practice the pronunciation!

First Name English NTC “Easy”Vanessa Rabbit Tutupčas Tutupch’asNolan Bear Skin Mucmuuhaq MutsmuuhhaqJagar Eagle Cixʷatin Ts’ixwatinVictoria Victoria Mituuni MituuniChantelle Thunderbird Tiickin T’iitsk’inJustin Wolf Qʷayaciik Qwayats’iikJared Bear Čims ChimsNatalie Hummingbird Saasin SaasinAndrew Bee ʕaasic âasitsBrady Otter Waxnii WaxniiGrace Dolphin hicswin hichswin Old Huu-ay-aht: hičswin hitsswinErica Mouse ƛiicaʕuk tl’iitsa-ûkEli Kingfisher T’amuuk T’amuukTiffany Wren C’ukn’a Ch’ukn’aClara Rainbow Ts’awayuus Ts’awayuusBen Deer ʕaatuš âatush

Marge WhiTe and FaMily hosT PoTlaTch

ocTober 9Th

Bradley Dennis was pleased to share a few thoughts with Uyaqhmis on the Potlatch hosted by Marge White and the whole Dennis family. “Our family gathered from all across BC and from as far away as California to participate in this family naming potlatch. I am glad to see the effect that this event had on our younger members, especially for my daughters. I now feel a stronger sense of family completion. “It was great that family elders took on the responsibility and made sure that all our children know who they are. Each name was selected to tie each person to the community or to a story that comes from our community. “My kids enjoyed spending so much of the week practicing dances with their cousins. They were able to connect with their larger family and in particular, with their aunties. “For me, I feel my family connections much more strongly now. I am anxious to participate in our family’s next gathering.”

Sons of Clarence Dennis (L-R): Tony, David, Scott, Brad (not shown Robert Todd Dennis). Black and white photos courtesy of Bradley Dennis.

Back Row (L-R): Gregory, Scott, Tony, David, (far right Back) JustinSecond Row: Myrna Mack, Ashley, Isaiah, Louella, Crystal, Clarence, DeeAnna, IslaThird Row: Ashley, Alicia Front Row: Sarita, Xavier, Letia

PosT secondary educaTion: nTc deadline aPProaching January 31st, 2011 is the NTC deadline for complete post-secondary applications. Students who plan to start their studies in September MUST submit a complete P/S funding application to the NTC by January 31st at 4:30 pm. Applications can be downloaded from the NTC website:http://www.nuuchahnulth.org/tribal-council/education.html Huu-ay-aht post-secondary school applicants will continue to utilize the process of the Nuu-chah-nulth Tribal Council Post-Secondary School Program until the Huu-ay-aht Post-Secondary Education Programs are in place (2011-2012). Uyaqhmis will report on the development of the Huu-ay-aht Post Secondary Program and policies as they become available.If you have any questions on the process, please contact:Kathy Waddell, Director of Human Services, Huu-ay-aht Treaty Office, (250.723.0100, or paawats@gmail.com) Demand for post-secondary education is always constrained by limited budgets, so don’t be disappointed by failing to follow the necessary and timely steps. Those who have successfully navigated the application process and have received funding assistance are acutely aware of application requirements and deadlines. Johnson Ginger, Huu-ay-aht member and successful post-secondary student, agreed to share a few of the lessons that have led to his academic success. “The first step to educational success is to really research career options well. Another factor is your choice of post-secondary facility—make sure that it is a good fit for you. Visit the school and talk with the counsellors, teachers and students already enroled in the program. All this will increase your chances for success. Once you have made your decision, stay focused on your goal every step of the way. That will get you succeed in reaching your goal.” Johnson Gin-ger is a Forest Resources Technologist, presently completing his studies after which he will become a Registered Forester. He participates in the Huu-ay-aht Lands Committee.

Above: Robert Dennis Jr. leads a group of exuberant children in song and dance (photo courtesy of Angela Wesley).

coMMuniTy ProFiles

Huu-ay-aht Uyaqhmis Issue 25 November 2010 55

Frances WilliaMs:“you’re never Too old To

go hoMe”In her lifetime, Frances Yvonne Williams, daughter of Winnie Williams, has had to engage in more than a few battles to arrive where she is today. She is a survivor. Her story includes surviving abusive foster home placements, substance abuse, cancer and a mini-stroke. Her personal journey back to health took a life changing turn in 1987, when she connected for the first time with her Huu-ay-aht family who warmly embraced and welcomed her and her children with an unconditional love that comes from healthy families. Frances has three children (Nicole Williams, James and Christopher Carter) and eight grandchildren (Samantha, Jeffery, Jordan, Kyla, Shawn, Connor, Nicholas, and Raven). She has delivered workshops for the Pacific Association of Aboriginal Women as well as workshops on personal growth, beadwork, jewelry and drum making. She recently held an exhibit of her crafts and artwork at the Surrey Art Gallery. On October 8, 1994, Frances received the family name Kilthmaa-sksup (Kilthsmaa-at-h Woman), the name that had belonged to Alex Williams’ grandmother, the wife of Jimmy Tlasmaahuus. Space considerations allow us to share only a small part of her story. Uyaqhmis thanks her for her fierce honesty and generosity in sharing her remarkable story with our readers. It took Frances Yvonne Williams quite some time before she discovered where her family comes from and where she really belongs. Taken at birth, Frances spent her early years overcoming a visual impairment and bouncing around BC Ministry foster homes in Surrey. When she was 17 years old, Frances set off on a 13 year journey to discover her identity, family and purpose. In 1987, after more than a few false starts and armed with her fierce determination, Frances found her way to the Huu-ay-aht reserve at Pachena Bay (Anacla).

In her backpack, Frances had a bit of food, a tarp and the birth information that she had wrestled from the BC Ministry of Children. She didn’t know a soul in the village but once she shared the name of her birth mother with the villagers, her world changed forever. In no time at all she was directed to the home of Fannie and Alex Williams where they warmly welcomed her as family. Fanny let Frances know that she was the grand-daughter of Mike Williams and Beatrice George, and in the Nuu-chah-nulth tradition, insisted that she call them ‘grandmother’ and ‘grandfather’. “I spent the whole week on the reserve with Fannie and Alex and every day I was invited to a different home where they served dinner and welcomed me with open arms. They told me who they were and how I am related to them. We took pictures and I got to explain who I was and why I was there. All of a sudden, it was a whole new world that I didn’t know that I had. Prior to then all I had was a Status card with my mother’s name on it. I was so excited that I had found family. When I got home, I told my children that

they have family! I couldn’t wait to take them to Anacla to meet aunties, uncles, cousins, and grandparents. They really enjoyed going to Anacla that first time, it was such an important self identity for them as young children—they were really proud. It gave them a heritage that I never grew up with”. “We’ve had an opportunity to get to know a lot of family members. I brought my kids home to take part in the potlatches and other events. I visited the community as often as possible and used to stay in the homes of Fanny and Alex Williams, Nellie Dennis, Maxine and Oscar Nookemus, and Annie Clappis. I enjoy talking with elders about their families and how they grew up. I got to share how I grew up so they got to know me a bit better. I am still learning about my heritage and family cultural practices, like dancing. Recently, I learned that my uncle Stephen Williams will be organizing a reunion in Seattle next year. You can see that my family has grown to include people well beyond those first introduced

to back in 1987 in Pachena. I was able to meet my auntie Mabel Dennis who used to live in Bellingham, and I have also met my brother, Charles Hube.” “I have had the opportunity to visit Nellie Dennis frequently over the years and I have great regard for her. She has been like a mother to me and when we get together, we talk about life and we talk about identity. Thinking back, it is interesting that there I was, learning who I am as an aboriginal woman for the first time at the age of 30. Finding family is really the biggest thing for me. I have been sober for 25 years and I often share my story with young people and others who are sobering up. This is what I tell them: you have a nation and a home to return to. You are never too old to go home.”

hFn coMMiTMenT To besT PracTices

Huu-ay-aht Administrative staff gathered for a meeting with the HFN Executive Director at the House of Huu-ay-aht on October 15, 2010 (see photo below) to review and reaffirm a commitment to the Huu-ay-aht policy of ‘Best Practices’ [Available on www.huuayaht.org].

Approved by the HFN Council in January 2010, this policy is in effect on a pilot basis and subject to review in November 2010. “The Self Government Best Practices Policy is the law of the land”, explained HFN Executive Director Connie Waddell. Best practices can be defined as the most efficient (least amount of effort) and ef-fective (best results) way of accomplishing a task. The HFN Best Practices policy includes a description of the roles and responsibilities of the HFN Chief and Council, HFN Executive Director and HFN Staff, Contractors and Committees. It also sets the highest standards of professional expectations for everyone to see. Huu-ay-aht citizens expect nothing less from those who work in service to the nation. Correspondingly, it is an important civic responsibility for Huu-ay-aht citizens to become familiar with this and all other pieces of legislation, policies and regulations that govern the Nation.

This is the first of a number of pieces of legislation, policies and regulations that are presently under construction and awaiting HFN Council approval for enactment prior to Effective Date. This means that a number of policies will come into full force on April 1, 2011 when Huu-ay-aht First Nations self government is restored under the Maa-nulth Final Agreement. Administrative Staff also participated on a tour to the HFN multipurpose building which is presently in its final construction stages, slated for completion by the end of this year. The transition plan to deliver more HFN programs and administrative services from this new facility will be implemented over the next several years as new housing and community infrastructure projects come on stream.

[Selected excerpts from] The Self Government Best Practices Policy 2010-2011

Huu-ay-aht administration means the operational and administrative arm of the Huu-ay-aht First Nations and includes all staff and contractors. The head of the operational and administrative arm of the Huu-ay-aht First Nations is the Director of Tribal Operations [now known as the HFN Executive Director]…Best Decision Making Practices…5.5 Every meeting must have a written agenda. The written agen-da together with written staff reports on each substantive item, must be issued at least 4 days before the meeting…Unless urgent and approved for consideration by Chief and Council, an agenda item must not be “walked in”. 5.6 The chair of a meeting must make every reasonable effort to create a professional , inclusive and respectful decision making environment where decisions are: …Timely, open, and transparent … reached after all sides of a issue have been heard…in the best interests of all Huu-ay-aht (present and future) regardless of geographic location.

Huu-ay-aht Uyaqhmis Issue 25 November 2010

our coMMuniTy

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Update yoUr address!Please remember to keep the HFN offices updated with your contact information and the members of your household. It is important for everything from Christmas cheques to mailings like Uyaqhmis or community meeting reminders. You can e-mail us at hfncommunications@gmail.com, or give the offices a call at 1.888.644.4555 or 250.723.1801.

neW inForMaTion sysTeMs For selF

governMenTRita Johnson (at left below) works for the Huu-ay-aht Lands and Natural Resources Department. In this October photo, Rita gets an introduction to the office of the Integrated Land Management Bureau (BC Land and Resource Registry) in Victoria. After Effective Date, Huu-ay-aht will be taking responsibility for our own Land and Resource Registry. Ruby Ann Burkholder (at right below) has been working regularly with Sandie Bradley, a certified records management consultant helping the HFN to create a new central records filing system. This new system will implement more efficient ways to organize and track electronic records and information vital to the smooth running of the Huu-ay-aht government. Ruby Ann has worked for the past ten years as the Huu-ay-aht Treaty Office Manager. In October, Ruby Ann and Sandie attended a three-day conference in Kelowna to explore the latest information management tech-nologies and software applications.

PorT alberni declared ‘ulTiMaTe Fishing ToWn’ by World Fishing

neTWork World Fishing Network’s Competition has crowned Port Alberni the Ultimate Fishing Town. The Sport Fishing Advisory Council, a local Port Alberni group that spearheaded the campaign, was presented with a trophy and cheque for $25,000 on October 14th at a ceremony at Port Alberni’s Harbour Quay. A spokesperson for the Sport Fishing Advisory Council signaled that they have plans to leverage other levels of government to match the prize money. This plan would create an even larger fund that would provide opportunities for community groups to request funding for local fishing projects. Pictured here holding the trophy is Larry Johnson, HFN Director of Lands and Natural Resources. Larry said that, “The designation of Port Alberni as the Ultimate Fishing Town will help focus North American attention on the fisheries resources in our part of the world. This increased interest will likely increase tourism to our region and that benefits everyone. At the same time, we hope that this interest will include oppor-

tunities to broaden a discussion started by the Alberni-Clayoquot Regional District this past August that demonstrates a clear understanding of how valuable the local First Nations fisheries are for the economy of Port Alberni.”

lesT We ForgeT This Remembrance Day, November 11th, we would like to take a moment to remember Huu-ay-aht veterans. Bill Ginger sent Uyaqhmis the story of his younger brother, Fred. Fred Ginger was born on a small troller enroute to Kildonan, BC, on August 1, 1939 and was the second son of Huu-ay-ahts Daisy Ginger (Jack) and Johnson Ginger. Fred was also a big brother to Jackie, Katheryn, Karen, Joseph, Randy, Patrick and Marysue. When Freddy was a year old, his mother died. He loved his great grandmother Annie Bob Ginger, nee Sam (Katecliss). As a young man, Freddy worked as a deckhand for his father and his mother’s younger brother Paul Jack on the Native II.

After graduation he worked in logging camps in Washington and Alaska. In 1966, he was drafted into the US Army and went on to become a member of the 101st Airborne. Before his unit was shipping out to Vietnam, he travelled from Fort Bragg, Georgia to Victoria, BC to see Katecliss one last time. She was in her late 90’s. Sadly, Katecliss passed away before Freddy returned from Vietnam. Freddy completed two tours and he was one of very few survivors after an attack in February 1968. He received a Bronze medal for Bravery. He never married or had children, and passed away in 2006. In September of last year, Bill buried Fred’s ashes on Diana’s Island - Kirby Point at his mother’s grave.Do you have Huu-ay-aht veterans in your family? We would like to feature them next year. Please contact Uyaqhmis.

Above; Huu-ay-aht veteran Fred Ginger

At left; views of Kiix-in. Below; Craig Charleson at work in the multipurpose building.

Huu-ay-aht Uyaqhmis Issue 25 November 2010

coMMuniTy calendar

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ONGOING:Tuesdays and Wednesdays Paawats Language Nest,10:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m., Paawats, Anacla

Alternate Thursdays Strong Start Program10:30 a.m. - 12:30 p.m, Bamfield Community School Call 250.728.3083 for more information or check website.

FridaysNayiʔii: FREE Language and Culture Program for Pre-schoolersKnee-waas, Port Alberni 10:30 a.m. - 1:30 p.m.

SundaysDance PracticePort Alberni Friendship Center 11:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m.Anacla: TBA

Wednesday, November 11th

Remembrance DayHFN offices closed

Saturday & Sunday, November 27th & 28th

People’s Assembly, Port Alberni (to be webcast)Venue TBA

July 2011 “Pulling Together” Canoe Journey.

September 2011The Huu-ay-aht Language Development Team plans to launch the 2-year Certification Nuu-chah-nulth Language Recovery Program. Students interested in taking this 2-year post sec-ondary course can find regular Uyaqhmis updates on this pro-gram as it develops.

Tabytha WilsonBorn Aug 15, 2010 6lbs 9.5 oz to parents Jimmy Cook and Elysia Wilson

Saryta Jaydan France DickBorn July 23, 2010 to parents Sherri Cook and Thomas Dick (Tseshaht)

Alberni Colour Corner #1 - 4310 10th Ave.“Your Paint, Floor & Moore Store!”

Open until 5 pm Mon. - Sat. 250.720.0030

Until November 15th:60% o� Levolor Custom Blinds

(additional 10% mail-in rebate on select blinds)

Privately owned and operated - Proud to be Huu-ay-aht!

Aura with Colour Lock

NEDC’s 2010 Business of the Year Award Winner

*Enter to win one of FOUR trips for two to Las Vegas with purchase*

See in-store for details (Nov. 1 - Nov. 30)

val belWood: nedc’s business oF The year aWard

Winner On Saturday, October 23rd, Val Belwood was the deserving recipient of the NEDC’s Business of the Year Award for 2010. Judging criteria included Financial Viability, Customer Service (customer reviews, repeat clientele, customer satisfaction, etc.), Innovative Practices (innovative business practices, technology, etc.), Exposure (known in the Nuu-chah-nulth communities and/or other communities), and Years of Operation. Val is very honoured to receive the award, and tells Uyaqhmis that she is excited to announce a new promotion in November. If you purchase $1500 of Levolor blinds or $3000 of flooring between November 1st and November 30th, you will be entered in a draw to win one of four trips for two to Las Vegas (see in-store for details). Congratulations on your entrepreneurial successes Val!

WelcoMe To n e W a n d r e T u r n i n g s Ta F F

The Huu-ay-aht Treaty Office welcomes the return of Jessica Burns as the Assistant to HFN Council while Molly Clappis is on maternity leave. Jessica, proud of her Ojib-way ancestry, is pictured below (in middle) with her sister Sarah Burns (left), mother Carol Burns (right), and baby niece. Gordie Johnson, also covering a maternity leave, will greet you at the HFN Treaty Office at reception, pictured at right below.

WelcoMe neW huu-ay-ahT!

Huu-ay-aht Uyaqhmis Issue 25 November 2010 8

one Word aT a TiMe

huu-ay-ahT TreaTy oFFice3483-3rd Avenue

Port Alberni, BC V9Y 4E4250.723.0100 Fax: 250.723.4646

huuayahttreaty@shawcable.com

huu-ay-ahT band oFFice

Box 70 Bamfield, BC V0R 1B0250.728.3414 Toll-Free: 1.888.644.4555Fax: 250.728.1222 huuayaht@pachena.ca

subMissions, QuesTions or coMMenTs?Please send any information, submissions or photographs to us; we will send you an an

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huu-ay-ahT WebsiTeFor new articles, job postings, updated events calendar, and an archive of the digital version of

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PrinciPle 2 oF language recovery: MaMuMs

(coMMiTMenT)With this article we continue talking about the four main principles of language acquisition: what it takes for you to become fluent in Quuquuʔaca. The recovery of the Huuʕiiʔath language can be imagined like rebuilding a majestic longhouse—a construction that rests on four huge houseposts. These are our four principles. Our last essay was all about housepost number one: positivity. Today, we will look at the second of these pillars: commitment. Out here on the West Coast, hardly any Quuʔas would say that his or her language is insignificant. To the contrary, many express their wish to learn (or relearn) their lan-guage. But whether we like it or not, learning a language is a challenge for every individual. And we need to be realistic: to reach even a basic level of fluency in a language as intricate and as beautiful as Nuučaanuł one must walk a long road. In the last article, we started off talking about being positive: to be in a good, healthy mood and to get together with others who want to take the same journey into the language - the language on which their communities were once thriving. Yes, doing it together is more fun. But even so, soon we will realize – this journey is not a short walk in the park. Once we started walking, we better not quit. We need commitment. So if commitment keeps us moving – where are the batteries and how can we charge them? Certainly the first question to ask ourselves is, why do we want to learn this language? As we explained in the June 2009 issue of Uyaqhmis, the name that the Barkley Sound First Nations use for their language is Quuquuʔaca, which derives from quuʔas, which implies ‘a complete human being, a First Nations person’. So Quuquuʔaca basically means ‘act and to speak like a real human being’. What better image is there to make clear that the threads of Quuquuʔaca are intertwined with every other strand in the cultural fabric that holds Quuʔas communities together? Quuquuʔaca connects you to your families, ancestors, and descendants through the traditional names that are handed down from generation to generation: a Quuʔas goes through a number of Quuʔas names in his or her life, and these names go through that Quuʔas. Think of the deep connection to the land in the many place names, and all the terms for the different species, beings and powers that surround us, and the names for the many cultural ways to reach, communicate with and make proper use of these resources provided by the land, sea and sky. Look at the Potlatch - this most important place and time where everything in Quuʔas communities comes together: working hard, supporting each other, knowing each other and one’s relations, finding a place in this world, learning, teaching and feeling good about being Quuʔas. Can you imagine a Potlatch happening without Quuquuʔaca? Without names being given, without speeches being held, prayers being spoken, songs being sung? Who are the Huuʕiiʔath depending on today to hold up these key aspects? Who will Huuʕiiʔath, Yuułuʔiłʔath, Huupačasʔath and all the other communities depend on in the future? The answer must be: the young people who will recover this language, and bring it back for their own children and grandchildren. As you could say in Quuquuʔaca: “work your mind”, mamuukšiʔi łimaqsti! These and other questions will help you to find out why you want to learn, and if you will be able to commit yourself to taking that journey: huhtakšiih ʔuuʔuuk ʷaʔatha, to learn your own people’s language. Once you have made up your mind why you want to learn, explain your reasons well to your Elders who will teach you. For them, teaching is not easy. It is hard work. They need encouragement and it will be strong motivation for them to see that you know what you want, why you want it, and that you are serious about it. That’s why commitment, working hard (and not only talking about wanting to), is the truest way of showing respect to your elders and your language. As an Arab saying goes: Words are nice, but chickens do lay eggs. Taking the road of Language Recovery is very much like changing your eating habits, trying to improve your diet, and trying to live a healthy, active life. It is hard, and it only works when you accept the challenge every day anew. Try and make a daily

effort to improve your fluency. Even if you only learn one new word in a day, by the end of the year you can hold a whole conversation. In everyday English, the most frequent 300 words make up 65% per cent of what we say in the course of a day. Why not do this with our first 300 words in Quuquuʔaca? And you will see, it will be like doing exercises and eating healthy – once you got used to it, you will never want to go back to your old life. Mamuuʕaqaƛqun ʔisaakstałqun (“working together we show each other proper respect”). Language recovery is a road into the future. So think about how to include your children and grandchildren in it. Make up your mind to use Quuquuʔaca with them as soon as you can say meaningful things related to your children’s everyday experiences, and use Quuquuʔaca as much as possible with them. It is also important to encourage your Elders who know the language to do the same with your children and grandchildren. If everything they spoke with the little ones was Quuquuʔaca, just naturally we would see a new generation of fluent speakers. Remind your Elders in a respectful way to do so, encourage them by proving to them that you do learn yourself and wish for your children to be part of it. Encourage them to talk to you all the time in the language. This last part is the Elders’ share in rebuilding our house: we are asking the Elders to try and make a daily effort to break the habit of speaking English, to talk to everybody in Quuquuʔaca. You Elders will see that a lot of what you say can be understood by us from the situation, even when a younger person may not know this or that particu-lar word, we’ll still get the gist of what you mean, and we will be very grateful for the chance to hear Quuquuʔaca.

Čuu, mamuuʕaqaƛin huʔacuʔuk ʷap ciqyakukqin. ʔAyaʔakin mamums.

“OK, let’s work together to bring back our language. We have lots of work to do.”~Terry Nučquuʔa Klokeid & Henry Huhtakšiihʔap Kammler, with thanks to Chuuchkamalhnii

Quuquuʔaca Easy Read Equivalent in Englishmamuuk mamuuk workingmamuukšiƛ mamuukshitl start workingmamuuʕaqa mamuu-âqa several working togethermamuuʔas mamuu-as going to workmamums mamums work, task, commitmentłimaqsti lim’aqsti mind, soul, consciousnessciqyak tsiqy’ak language, word-ukqin -ukqin our-’in - ’in let’s huʔacuʔuk ʷap hu-atsu-ukw’ap bringing backʔisaak isaak respect, respecting-stał -st’al each otherhuhtakšiih huhhtakshiihh learningʔuʔuuk ʷaʔatha u-uu-kw’a-athha speaking in one’s own lan-guageʔaya aya lots, much-ʔakin - -akin we have, ours is